Short Belfast
The Short SC.5 Belfast is driven by four turboprop transport aircraft of the British manufacturer Short Brothers & Harland Ltd.. The ten -built machines were first as Belfast C.1 for the Royal Air Force in use. Some of them were then used as civilian cargo aircraft.
History
The Short Belfast was created at the request of the Royal Air Force after a transport aircraft, with 200 soldiers, or heavy equipment can be transported over long distances. Short began in 1959 with the development. The first flight took place on 5 January in 1964, commissioned into the RAF took place in 1966. At this time it was the largest aircraft of the British armed forces. Due to budgetary problems, the government only 10 of the planned 30 units could be purchased.
Construction
The Belfast is a continuous tape as a high-wing monoplane all-metal aircraft in semi- monocoque construction. The drive serve four turboprop Rolls- Royce Tyne RTy.12 each with 4275 kW. The aluminum four-blade propellers have a diameter of 4.90 m. The Heckladetor was provided with a loading dock. The retractable landing gear consists of a two-wheeled front leg and a two-piece main chassis with eight wheels.
Use
In the hold 150 fully equipped soldiers, a medium battle tank or two helicopters can be accommodated. With a starting weight of over 100 tonnes, the Belfast is one of the most powerful propeller-driven transport aircraft.
As early as 1976, the aircraft were retired as part of a restructuring measure, five of which were sold to the Trans Meridian Air Cargo. The rest were scrapped.
Specifications
Aircraft received
A Belfast today for the Australian airline Heavy Lift Cargo Airlines in use, but is currently in Australia for sale.
A second aircraft serial number XR371 is located since 1978 in front of the Royal Air Force Museum Cosford in.
Comparable aircraft types
- Antonov An-22
- Douglas C -133